English Reference
Adjective

leafy

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˈɫifi/ UK /lˈiːfi/ leafy

adj.having many trees or plants. You use this to describe a place that feels green and natural, like a quiet street or a park.

adj.characterised by an abundance of foliage or vegetation. Often carries a positive connotation of wealth or tranquility when describing residential areas.


SIMPLE

We live on a quiet, leafy street in the suburbs.

CONTEXTUAL

The city's leafy northern districts are popular with families looking for more green space and less traffic.

COMPLEX

The architect's vision was to integrate the glass structure into the leafy surroundings, ensuring that the ancient oaks remained the focal point of the property.

Usage

Typically used attributively before a noun like 'suburb', 'lane', or 'neighbourhood'.

Peppers and mulukhiyah, a dark green leafy vegetable, are now selling at a tenth of their market price earlier this year.

The Guardian· 26 Aug 2026

From leaf + -y.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated